1997 Chevrolet Express vs. 2009 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 6,505 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Nitro (210 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (193 HP @ 3400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 440 kg more than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Express. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Chevrolet Express (583 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Dodge Nitro. (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Dodge Nitro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Chevrolet Express | 2009 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Dodge |
| Model | Express | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Van | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6505 cc | 3699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 583 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2400 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2770 mm |
